Dublin Zoo's farm wins EU award

The educational programme run by the family farm at Dublin Zoo has won first place in a European Commission awards scheme.

The "CAP 50" awards programme recognises best practice in communicating the Common Agricultural Policy.

The family farm, which replaced the pets' corner in the zoo in 2010, is run by Agri Aware and the zoo.

Its entry, which described the farm as an acre of fun representing an island of farming, was shortlisted from 118 entries in 21 countries.

Dublin Zoo’s head of education, Una Smyth said the farm was extremely popular with visitors, especially children. "They love meeting the animals and learning about agriculture. They’re especially fond of meeting Bella the dairy cow, so to have Family Farm recognised for its work at such a high level is fantastic; for the team in Agri Aware and everyone here in the zoo too.”

Agri Aware chairman Bernard Donohue said it was a huge and welcome achievement. "Family Farm has gone from strength to strength and is continuing to grow in popularity with visitors from across Ireland and internationally, with one million visitors per year.”